Get ahead of legislation: 8 steps to building a strong anti-bullying policy

When we think of bullying, we usually think of kids at school, not adults in the workplace. But, according to a 2010 survey, 35% of American workers have been bullied at work.

Unfortunately for those employees, there are currently no federal or state laws that specifically prohibit bullying in the workplace. That may soon change.

Legislation ahead?

Since 2003, the Healthy Workplace Bill (HWB), or some variation of the HWB, has been proposed in at least 24 states. The HWB, drafted by Suffolk University Professor of Law David Yamada, is a model statute that provides legal redress for em­­ployees who are subjected to an abusive work environment. It would allow them to sue both their employer and the alleged bully for monetary damages.

It is our view that the proper method/tool for management to address employee feedback is an essential component of workplace bullying and harassment administration. Sensitive issues are not the ones someone just walks into HR to discuss.